Stormwatch

Stormwatch

Sophia mine reopening after 2 fatal accidents

Local
-
3/6/2013 12:51 PM
by Lauren Haviland

SOPHIA - The Raleigh County mine where two men died within two weeks of each other will be resuming production once again.

United Coal Company has resumed production at the Affinity Mine in Sophia after state and federal officials have given their approval to start back work. The mine had been idled since John Myles, of Hilltop, was crushed by a scoop while shoveling coal ribs on February 19.

Before that on, February 7, Edward Finney, of Bluefiled, was pinned under a hoist.

Each employee will be focusing on task training on their first day back. Management also said they will be maintaining close contact with each worker and reviewing safety protocols.